Media releases

Get ready for changes to smoking laws

A new Health Department campaign to prepare Western Australians for changes to the State’s tobacco laws was launched today.

Department of Health Director General Kim Snowball said the three week campaign would highlight changes to tobacco legislation which were passed by State Parliament on 22 September 2009 and were due to come into effect on 22 September 2010.

Mr Snowball said it was important that all Western Australians and affected business sectors were aware of the changes and prepared for their intoduction.

"The Tobacco Products Control Amendment Act 2009 will tighten restrictions on where people can smoke and on the promotion of tobacco in Western Australia," Mr Snowball said.

"The laws will affect many in the community, such as tobacco retailers, hotel owners, café and food outlet proprietors, industry groups, and the general public."

"The Department of Health has continued to work with key groups to make them aware of the changes to the legislation and it is important that people prepare for the new laws now so they are aware of their obligations once they take effect."

Under the legislation smoking will be banned:

in outdoor eating areas

in vehicles with children under 17 years of age

within 10 metres of children’s playground equipment in a public place

between the flags at patrolled swimming areas on beaches

Liquor licensed premises that are not subject to a restaurant liquor licence may set aside up to 50 per cent of outdoor dining areas as smoking zones.

The display of tobacco products, packages and smoking implements at point of sale will also be banned.

"Western Australia is leading the way in combatting smoking and this legislation will result in major health benefits for all Western Australians," Mr Snowball said.

"Not only will it help protect children from tobacco promotion and the harms of passive smoking, but it will also reduce smoking-caused illness, and help people live longer, healthier lives."

Mr Snowball said the campaign would be run across the State and would feature a range of media including radio and press adverts.